By ABHAN
Courtney Messman

NAVSTA Everett
Public Affairs

Jan. 17 marked the 25th anniversary of the holiday honoring one of the country’s most prominent civil rights leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Naval Station Everett (NSE) Sailors attended a ceremony, Jan. 14, to commemorate King and his many accomplishments, and were then invited to enjoy a special lunch in honor of King at the All American located on base.

Chief Culinary Specialist (SW) Carlos McNeal, leading chief petty officer, Naval Station Everett Supply Department, opened the event by reminding Sailors of the impact King had on our nation.

“This morning we remember and celebrate the life of a truly great American, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,” said McNeal. “His values, ideals, and his character still stands as a beacon of hope for all citizens of our nation who believe in justice and equality.”

McNeal then introduced the guest speaker, Raymond Miller, a retired US Air Force and Vietnam veteran, and Veterans Program Manager for Therapeutic Health Services. Miller is also the founder of Vets Place Northwest-Welcome Home.

During Millers’ speech, he spoke about King’s history, ideas and accomplishments, and encouraged Sailors to honor Kings life.

“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a Baptist Minister, a powerful speaker, and a man of great spirit who shaped the American civil rights movement in the 1950’s,” said Miller. “At age 35, King was the youngest recipient of the Nobel Piece Prize.”

Miller continued to talk about the many accomplishments of King during his short 39 years of life and his personal experiences of how King impacted his life.

“In late August of 1963, I was glued to my television as I heard Dr. Martin Luther King give the greatest speech of his life,” said Miller. “It was a great time in American History, to be apart of that movement, and to see how far we have come.”

Miller then ended his speech by reading the final speech made by King before he was assassinated.

After the ceremony, Sailors were invited to enjoy a special Lunch at the All American, Also to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.